USMNT ignited their 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign with a commanding 4-1 victory over Paraguay in front of an electric home

The United States men’s national team ignited their 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign with a commanding 4-1 victory over Paraguay in front of an electric home crowd at Los Angeles Stadium.

The co-hosts set the tone early, seizing control in the 7th minute when a Weston McKennie cross was deflected into the net by Paraguayan midfielder Damián Bobadilla. Striker Folarin Balogun, making his World Cup debut, stole the show with a spectacular first-half brace, finding the top corner in the 31st minute and again just before halftime to secure a historic 3-0 interval lead.

While Paraguay’s Maurício managed to pull one back in the 72nd minute, the U.S. never relinquished control. Midfielder Gio Reyna provided the finishing touch in stoppage time, firing a strike with the outside of his boot to finalize the 4-1 scoreline.

Manager Mauricio Pochettino praised his side’s collective energy and high-intensity press, which overwhelmed the opposition throughout the evening. For the Americans, the victory marks a dream start to a tournament carrying immense expectations, providing a statement performance as they move forward in Group D.